Many Faiths

One Peace

Prayer Service Remembers Victims Of 9/11

WEST HARTFORD — Emanuel Synagogue radiated with mutual respect Sunday, as religious leaders from many different faiths prayed for world peace and the victims of 9/11.

Sponsored by the Connecticut Council for Interreligious Understanding Inc., the prayer service was attended by more than 100 worshippers.

Violinist Bernard Lurie, accompanied by piano, opened the service with the theme from the movie "Schindler's List."

"We look for the good of all humanity and all people," said Rabbi David Small of Emanuel Synagogue. "Hatred and intolerance are the false idols of those who attack us."

It is critical for people of all faiths to embrace rather than turn against one another if the spiritual fight against evil is to be won, Small said.

"Let love and justice flow. Let peace fill the earth as waters will the sea," the rabbi said.

Nirmal Singh, a Sikh who lives in Farmington, said living in harmony during strenuous times is the true test of a devout person.

While different religious groups may take several paths, all strive to end up at the same destination, he said.

"We are all God's children and his door is open to us," Singh said.

Shyamala Raman, vice chairwoman of the interreligious council, said the group was founded a decade ago.

The organization, Raman said, works to foster mutual respect through dialogue in the fight against ignorance and violence.

The horror of 9/11 remains a stark reminder that commitment to peace, through education and understanding, must become second nature to people of all faiths, Raman said.

West Hartford Mayor Jonathan Harris told congregants that individualism is important, but we all are members of "one human family."

"We need to celebrate life. We need to live ... in the face of evil," Harris said.

Mallika Radhakrishnan, a Hindu from Simsbury, called for people's hearts to beat in unison with friendship, compassion and kindness.

A member of the Connecticut Valley Hindi Temple Society, her message was succinct: "Peace. Peace. Peace."

The Right Rev. Andrew D. Smith, Episcopal bishop of Connecticut, prayed that all divisions be healed so that all people view each other as a blessing.

Manjit Singh, a Sikh, made the trip from Branford. He thinks regularly scheduled interreligious gatherings across the state and nation would foster understanding.

"It's a wonderful opportunity," he said. "America is a diverse country. We learn we have to live in harmony and with understanding. Instead of looking at each other differently, it gives you an opportunity to learn something new."